With the Aviva Premiership, RaboDirect PRO12 and Top 14 campaigns all underway, the countdown to the eagerly-awaited British & Irish Lions tour to Australia is well and truly on.

As we all tick off the days until the team depart Down Under, ESPNscrum will cast an eye across the action and pinpoint those players eligible for the elite tourists who are pushing their selection claims with strong performances. Lions coach Warren Gatland has revealed that he is prepared to cast the selection net beyond international rugby so expect competition to be fierce.

There is a lot of rugby to be played until the squad board the plane for Hong Kong and plenty of time for hopes to rise and fall with many international stars yet to return to the domestic fray but the excitement is already building.

The Ireland winger bagged two tries in Ulster's 48-19 thrashing of Cardiff Blues as the Irish province paid tribute to the late Nevin Spence. At his best Bowe remains the most all-round winger the Lions possess.

After a rough start to the season Farrell bounced back with great assurance and maturity in kicking Sarries to victory against Harlequins at the Stoop. His all-round game was not exceptional but his nerve was impressive.

The Ospreys hooker crossed for a try and put in a powerful all-round display against Munster. He remains behind Matthew Rees in the Welsh set up but a strong showing in the autumn internationals could catapult him into the Lions reckoning.

Wilson celebrated his call up to the England elite players' squad this week by scoring a terrific try against Sale, showing he has the ball-carrying power to compliment his technical skills in the scrum.

Parling is one of the top lineout exponents in the Aviva Premiership and has swiftly established himself England's leading lock and a strong contender for a place on the plane to Australia. Another strong display against Exeter.

The Ospreys openside is fast becoming a accomplished exponent at the breakdown and his scavenging skills will surely be put to the test in the autumn internationals, from the bench or from a starting role.